Whitstable has a rich maritime past, strong arts culture and is famous for its annual Oyster Festival.

But don’t worry if you miss the annual (July) Oyster Festival; the delicacy is readily available in many eating and drinking places around Whitstable or indeed from the fresh fish market in the harbour to take home to your cottage.

The town has a good selection of pubs, including one on the beach, cafes and restaurants, boutique shops, craft and arts shops, delis and fashion shops and art galleries; providing a lovely bohemian atmosphere where you can spend a relaxing cottage break.

The town is especially proud of its pristine sand and shingle beaches, which are cleaned scrupulously, from there, you can explore (with care) ‘The Street’ a unique shingle causeway that stretches a full half-mile out to sea in the low tide. There’s also a traditional windmill, though nowadays part of a hotel, and an intriguing network of historic, narrow back-alleys. Take a look around the museum and gallery to learn more about the town’s seafaring past or stroll around the unique Harbour Village where artists, artisans and gourmet food producers display their wares from traditional fishermen’s huts.

For those looking for activities the area is a centre for sailing, water-skiing, kitesurfing and other watersports and along the coast and inland there are quiet county lanes perfect for cycling and walking. Places of interest include The Whitstable Castle and Gardens which date back to the 1790’s and the cliff-top lawns and colourful beach huts at Tankerton Slopes which have great views.

There’s so much more than molluscs in this town; why not see for yourself and search Whitstable holiday cottages.